Forklift extensions are a good choice whenever you find you need to reach further than your standard lift truck will allow. Additionally, if you find that a load exceeds more than you can securely lift on your forklift, an extension could help you complete your job safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Efficiency
Extensions would offer added support and capacity to the lift truck when lifting or moving containers, pallets, or extremely heavy loads. Moreover, the extensions will add more length to the current blades enabling the one operating it to reach farther than before. Utilizing lift truck extensions really saves a company the requirement to obtain individual equipment to be able to finish the task. This could save potentially thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity options with the machine you already have.
Lots of extensions just slip on the typical forklift forks. Extensions can be acquired so as to fit blades that have widths of 4", 5" and 6". It is essential to measure your extensions in order to obtain a correct fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width which is half an inch wider as opposed to the size stated is vital to making sure the accurate fit. Whenever obtaining your extension size, be certain it is equivalent to your blade's width. For example, if you have forks that are 6 inches wide, you will utilize an extension which is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
OSHA standards for safety have a regulation length for blade extensions. According to this particular regulation, blade extensions cannot be longer than fifty percent of the actual blade length. Abiding by these rules would help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal forklift extensions so as to avoid rust. The two most common sizes for forklift extensions in the industry are 60" and 72", although, different lengths are existing.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are offered in two choices. The first alternative connects the extensions onto the forklift with one pull pin. This is the quick release mechanism. The next and safer choice is the safety loop which is welded on and provides a more secure attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are offered either tapered or non-tapered for nearly all pallet and container loads. Triangular extensions are utilized whenever transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads comprise pipes, coils or drums. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are usually constructed of steel and could be designed to fit forks up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Secured in place making use of a locking bar, they slide on and off easily. Triangular extensions range in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
It is at all times a good idea to utilize safety precautions when handling any kind of industrial machinery and lift truck extensions are no different. Inspecting your forklift extensions prior to use is also a good habit to get into. After the extensions have been placed onto the forklift, the attaching mechanism should be inspected as well. Physical injury or damage to the load could occur if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Following OSHA regulations will likewise help to guarantee the safety of the individual operating it and individuals working in close proximity.
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